- Sj(SqrRoot)(Delta)gren s syndrome is an autoimmune disease (where the immune system attacks normal body tissues) that affects the salivary glands. Many people with Sj(SqrRoot)(Delta)gren s syndrome are not able to make enough saliva because their salivary glands are inflamed. The dry mouth that results can interfere with daily activities and can lead to dental cavities, mouth sores, and infections. Injections of corticosteroids into the parotid glands can improve saliva production in people with to Sj(SqrRoot)(Delta)gren s syndrome, but current treatment practices may provide only temporary relief. Researchers are interested in studying the effectiveness of stronger corticosteroid injections (using dexamethasone) to determine how the corticosteroid treatment actually works.